Former President Rodrigo Duterte appeared in person at the International Criminal Court (ICC) in The Hague on Wednesday, September 16, for the third status conference in his case involving alleged crimes against humanity linked to his anti-drug campaign.

The 81-year-old former president attended the hearing as the ICC considers his health and ability to stand trial. His trial is currently scheduled to begin in November.

Duterte arrived in the courtroom wearing a black suit and white shirt. He remained silent during the proceedings, while President Judge Joanna Korner noted that it was his first appearance in person before the court.

The hearing focuses on arguments concerning Duterte's health and cognitive condition. His defense lawyers have maintained that he is experiencing cognitive decline and is not medically fit to stand trial.

Duterte was transferred to the ICC in The Hague in March 2025 after his arrest in the Philippines. He initially appeared before the court through a video link and had not personally attended subsequent hearings, with his defense citing his health.

The ICC case concerns allegations of murder as a crime against humanity allegedly committed in the Philippines between 2011 and 2019, including during Duterte's tenure as Davao City mayor and later as president.

The September 16 proceedings mark Duterte's first public appearance at the ICC since his transfer to The Hague 18 months ago, ahead of the court's consideration of whether the case can proceed to trial.